The legislation was inspired by Nicholas DaSilva, a Hardyston resident who was diagnosed with Burkitt’s lymphoma in 2013 when he was just 5-years-old. After months fighting against cancer, Nicholas was declared in remission, and in the two years since that news, he has worked tirelessly to help other children with the disease. Along with members of his family, Nicholas has raised money to help other kids through donations to the Valerie Fund and Alex’s Lemonade Stand.

“Nicholas is a true inspiration,” Senator Oroho said. “He never stopped fighting, and now he’s doing whatever he can to help others. Nicholas and his family have been a huge help as we work to establish this special awareness week, and I can’t thank them enough.”

Childhood cancer affects so many in #NJ.Let's help more people understand it and teach them how they can help https://t.co/4neULdtnPA

Senator Oroho’s SJR-49 designates the third week in September as “Go Gold for Kids with Cancer Awareness Week.” While childhood cancer is rare, it is still the leading cause of death from disease in American Children under the age of 19. For kids that are battling cancer or have survived it, adjusting to school and other social settings can be difficult. They often experience anxiety and have concerns about their body image. As part of the week, schools will be encouraged to have activities that promote a better understanding of childhood cancers and build compassion for kids with the disease.

“Cancer can be a difficult fight for anyone, but it can be particularly hard on our young people, who are faced with a diagnosis while also trying to grow and find their fit in the world,” Senator Oroho said. “It’s important for us to shed light on their struggles and hopefully expose more people to all the ways they can help. If we can get into schools and help students understand this disease, they will better understand the fighters and survivors around them.”